Can You Own A Falcon?

Owning a falcon has an exotic allure, but is it legal? What are the requirements? This article will examine if and how you can own a falcon in the United States.

If you’re short on time, here’s a quick answer: Yes, it is legal to own a falcon in the US if you obtain the proper permits and abide by regulations.

We’ll look at the history of falconry, details on securing permits, housing requirements, costs, finding a falcon, training, and more to help you determine if falconry is right for you.

History and Background of Falconry

Origins and Tradition of Falconry

Falconry, the sport of hunting with trained birds of prey, has a long and storied history spanning thousands of years. The origins of falconry likely began in ancient Mesopotamia, with evidence of trained hawks being used to hunt game dating back over 4,000 years ago.

From there, the practice spread throughout Europe and Asia, becoming an incredibly popular sport among nobles and commoners alike.

Throughout much of its history, falconry was more than just a pastime – it played an important role in society. Falconers often held respected positions in royal courts, hired as master huntsmen to help procure meat and furs.

Kings and emperors viewed skilled falconers as valuable assets, showering them with rewards and honors. There are accounts of entire falcony chambers and mews being constructed to house and care for the prized birds.

So intrinsic was falconry to daily life that it frequently appeared in the art, literature and heraldry of medieval civilizations across the Middle East, Europe and Asia.

Over generations, a rich tradition formed around the sport, giving rise to unique terminology, training techniques, equipment, and even festivals to celebrate the falconer’s craft. Complex languages developed describing the subtle nuances of a raptor’s plumage and behaviors.

Apprenticeships passed specialized skills and best practices from seasoned experts to the next generation. Today, while innovations in technology and training do emerge, time-honored traditions still very much shape modern falconry practices.

Falconry in the US Today

In recent decades, falconry has witnessed a resurgence in the United States. While previously restricted to nobility for centuries, the pastime opened up in the 1900’s as records indicate an estimated 60 falconers practicing during 1925.

After the second world war, interest grew rapidly, with approx 800 licensees by 1970. Today, the North American Falconers Association reports over 15,000 members from novice enthusiasts to expert breeders and trainers.

One driving factor behind this renewed fascination is likely the portrayals across pop culture, from beloved fictional works to historical dramas spotlighting the role raptors held in medieval societies.

The up close access and interactions offered at falconry centers, bird of prey exhibitions, and zoo demonstrations also enables more opportunities to spark captivation with these remarkable hunter species in audiences today.

Yet challenges remain on conservation fronts. As human activity encroaches on critical habitat ranges, several birds of prey suffer marked population declines and risk extinction if not properly monitored and protected.

However, the tight-knit falconry community continues holding educational events and pushing legislation around sustainable, ethical practices as good stewards helping preserve raptors for generations to come.

Is It Legal to Own a Falcon?

Federal Regulations

Owning a falcon in the United States is legal but regulated under federal and state laws. At the federal level, the Migratory Bird Treaty Act of 1918 makes it illegal to take, possess, transport, sell, purchase, barter, or offer to sell, purchase or barter any migratory bird, including falcons, without a permit issued by the U.S.

Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS). This law applies to all native North American falcon species like the peregrine falcon, gyrfalcon, prairie falcon, and merlin.

To legally own a falcon, you must obtain a falconry permit from the USFWS. This involves passing a written test on birds of prey husbandry and care, having your falconry equipment and housing inspected, and finding a licensed falconer willing to be your sponsor and mentor during your 2-year apprenticeship period.

Permitted falconers can trap wild raptors, purchase captive-bred birds, or transfer birds from other falconers to use for hunting game and training. However, the number and species are restricted based on your experience level.

State Permit Requirements

In addition to federal regulations, individual states may have laws regulating falconry. Most states require obtaining a state falconry license or permit, which involves passing a test, having your facilities inspected, and demonstrating your experience.

Some states may limit take of wild raptors, ban non-native species, require annual license renewals, or mandate you to submit reports on your activities.

Before acquiring a falcon, be sure to check with your state’s wildlife agency about specific permitting rules, costs, application procedures, and other regulations like using telemetry, flying birds at airports, taking raptors out of state, etc.

Complying with all federal and state laws is mandatory for practicing falconry legally and ethically.

To summarize, owning and using falcons for hunting and training in the U.S. is legal with proper federal and state permits. Regulations help conserve raptor populations and ensure humane treatment and housing for these magnificent birds of prey.

Housing Requirements

Indoor Facilities

Falcons kept as pets require ample indoor space to fly, exercise, and play (National Falconry Association, 2022). Most experts recommend a minimum area of 8 ft wide by 8 ft deep by 8 ft high for one bird.

The enclosure should have varied perching spots at different heights and several windows for natural light. Wire mesh walls allow visibility and ventilation but small enough spacing to prevent escapes. Easy-clean surfaces like sealed concrete floors make maintenance simpler.

Places to bathe such as shallow bath pans should also be incorporated.

Indoor mews should provide a stimulating environment including toys, swings, bells and safe shredding objects to prevent boredom-related feather plucking. Temperature and humidity levels must be suitable as well – cool in summer, moderately warm in winter.

Proper lighting that mimics daylight patterns allows normal circadian rhythms (The Modern Apprentice, 2022). Quiet spaces to retreat from household noises are vital too since falcons are easily stressed.

Outdoor Facilities

In addition to their mews, pet falcons require an interesting outdoor area for flying and exercising daily. A typical falcon weathering yard has astroturf or grass flooring enclosed by 9 gauge 2” x 3” welded wire walls up to 12 ft high.

The larger the space the better for flight training and free flying. Yards must have a shelter or shade roof to protect from heat, rain and snow. Perches, swings, ladders and logs provide environmental enrichment. Gravel substrate helps drainage especially if digging / bathing pools are included.

Flying zones are often most limited by urban property sizes so rural areas or large parks work better. Well-trained birds can free fly encircled by the falconer wearing thick gloves but risks include escaping, territorial conflicts, or distracting wildlife attacks.

Radio telemetry trackers may be worn to locate lost birds. Lured flying provides control and skill development using swung bait to entice short directed flights then rewarded on return.

Finding and Securing a Falcon

Captive-Bred vs. Wild-Caught

When looking to obtain a falcon, you’ll need to decide between a captive-bred or wild-caught bird. Captive-bred falcons are raised in captivity by reputable breeders and are used to human interaction from a young age. This makes them easier to train and handle.

However, some argue wild-caught birds have stronger natural instincts that aid in hunting. Wild-caught birds must be trapped and imported legally, which can be complex. They also require more intense training and could potentially carry diseases.

Overall, most experts recommend captive-bred birds for beginners or hobbyists.

Species

Common falcon species kept for falconry in North America include the American kestrel, red-tailed hawk, Harris’s hawk, peregrine falcon, and gyrfalcon. Each has different care requirements, temperaments, and hunting abilities.

For instance, the bold and energetic peregrine falcon excels at high-speed hunting of birds in open areas. Meanwhile, the steady and mellow red-tailed hawk adapts well to suburban areas stalking small mammals and game.

Do thorough research to choose a species well-suited to your lifestyle and environment.

Costs

Expect to invest $1000-$2000 USD to purchase a captive-bred falcon from a reputable breeder, depending on the species and pedigree. Prices are generally lowest for common species like the American kestrel and highest for rare species like the gyrfalcon.

Beyond the initial purchase, plan on several hundred dollars annually for housing, equipment, veterinary expenses, and food. Taking on a falcon is a serious commitment, but the costs can be managed with proper planning.

Vet Exams and Care

Regular veterinary care is essential to keep your falcon healthy and fit for hunting. Schedule an exam with an avian veterinarian specialized in raptors immediately after acquiring your bird to check for parasites, infections, and nutritional issues.

Annual exams, bloodwork, and viral screening are recommended too. Expect to pay $100-$300 per visit. Between exams, monitor your falcon closely each day and respond promptly to any signs of illness. Providing excellent preventative care and nutrition is key to avoiding expensive vet bills down the road.

Training and Handling

Bonding

Bonding is a critical first step when training a falcon. Spending regular, consistent time with the bird allows it to become comfortable with its human handler. During bonding, the falconer will get the bird accustomed to being hooded, having its feet handled, and being leashed.

This process requires patience as the falcon learns to trust the falconer. It’s important not to rush the bird during this phase. With consistent daily interaction and positive reinforcement, a strong bond will form over time.

Early Training Steps

Once a bond has been established, early training steps focus on basic commands. The falcon is taught to jump up on the falconer’s glove on command. This is known as “manning” and is often done by tempting the bird onto the glove with a tidbit of food.

Over time, the bird will learn to associate the glove with getting fed. Other important first lessons include getting the falcon comfortable with being hooded and having its feet handled. A steady supply of the bird’s preferred food helps keep it calm and receptive during these early training sessions.

Advanced Training

After mastering the basics, advanced training aims to hone the falcon’s hunting skills. One important technique is called creance flying – the falcon is tethered to a long leash or creance while flying short distances.

This allows the bird to rebuild flight muscles and stamina in a controlled setting after molting or an injury. The falconer will also work on flying the falcon to the lure – typically a leather pouch on a line used to simulate prey.

With regular flying sessions and encouragement when the falcon catches the lure, its response time and accuracy will improve. Free flying can then be introduced in open terrain. An experienced falconer will carefully observe the bird’s progress, ready to intervene if its focus wavers.

With extensive practice, the falcon will learn to follow commands, respond promptly, and hunt cooperatively with its human partner.

Ongoing Care and Costs

Food and Equipment

Falcons are carnivorous birds that require a diet high in protein from sources like mice, rats, quail, pigeons, and rabbits. Owners need to have the proper enclosures like weathering yards and mews, perches, bath containers, leather jesses and hoods, swivels, outdoor housing, and more (The Modern Apprentice).

The initial cost of basic falconry equipment can range between $1,000-2,000. Annual costs of care and feeding average $2,000-5,000 per bird, though larger species that eat more will have higher associated costs.

Time Commitment

Falcons require substantial, consistent time commitments from their owners. Not only is finding, capturing, and feeding live prey quite time consuming, but exercising the raptors daily is also essential. Hawks must be flown free nearly every day to keep their flying skills and stamina honed.

This usually necessitates at least an hour per day of active flying time with additional prep and post-flight care. Owners must diligently observe weight fluctuations, monitor foot health and feather condition, and watch for signs of illness or stress.

Over the typical 10+ year lifespan of a falcon, the extensive and reliable time commitment is considerable.

Potential Health Issues

Like any pet, captive raptors can suffer injuries and get sick. Strenuous flying can lead to crashes and bone fractures. Foot infections like bumblefoot and respiratory issues are somewhat common. Fortunately, experienced avian veterinarians can treat many falcon ailments and owners must budget medical expenses as well.

Conclusion

While falconry requires dedication, proper facilities, and obtaining licenses, it can be immensely rewarding to train and hunt with these magnificent birds of prey. We’ve covered the key steps and responsibilities to give you a comprehensive overview of what’s involved in falcon ownership.

Please check your state’s specific regulations as you embark on this unique adventure!